Well, err, yea I broke my back last year eh.

**Her_C4** · 6th June 2007, 19:53

AWEsome post - wishing you all good things .

**Brett** · 6th June 2007, 20:00

Good on ya mate. I have been impressed with your attitude on your situation from day one. Very humbling, and a great role model. It would have been so easy to give up and feel very sorry for yourself, and rightly so to an extent. I sincerely hope you find another way to enjoy bikes, or another hobby that gives you the same buz.

Cheers

Brett

**Edbear** · 6th June 2007, 21:16

Pretty much what everyone here has said!

I got out of my chair - thought I was going to die in it! Or during the 20+hrs per day I was bedridden! I value every step I take and every time I stand up!

It has been said that "That which doesn't kill us, makes us stronger!" Your strength will inspire those whose lives you touch!

Good on your attitude, it will serve you and your loved ones well! All the best for your rehabilitation. You know everyone is supporting you and those around you either directly or in word, (posts), and thoughts.

**zooter** · 6th June 2007, 23:24

That is one humbling story man. Makes one owns troubles seem much easier to overcome so thanks.

**Deviant Esq** · 7th June 2007, 00:47

It's time for John to head north again. We'll be driving out of Burwood for the last time (hopefully) this Saturday morning (June 9th). Since a condition of John getting the new car and actually being allowed to take it back up to Taranaki was to have someone with him, he asked me if I could spare a weekend to do just that. Always happy to make time for him, I said I'd do it. I'll get dropped off at Burwood on Saturday morning, jump in the new car and head north. We've sort of figured I'll be driving the South Island leg, and once we hit the North Island John will take over if he feels up to driving. I don't mind either way, since I like driving.

Anyway, if all goes well and the 6.05pm ferry at Picton is a wheelchair access one, we'll get on that and cross over to Wellington. Since we're expecting to leave Burwood in the morning, we'll be in Picton in plenty of time. The ferry is expected in Wellington at 9.05pm. It's rather short notice, but if there anyone who's able to put us up for the night (Saturday June 9) in Wellington, it'd be appreciated. Not too sure if we'll be able to have a drink somewhere or not... but I'd like to meet some of the Welly crew if we get a chance

Anyway Sunday morning we'll resume the trip northwards up to Taranaki, hopefully arriving mid afternoon. Won't be much time for a rest though, as we'll have to scoot to New Plymouth to get on a plane back to Christchurch - I have jury service on Monday morning.

Anyone who sees a late model Mitsubishi Airtreck with two devious looking characters in it and music thumping away, give us a wave.

**inlinefour** · 7th June 2007, 12:31

Originally Posted by Oakie

Nice post John. Funny thing to say but I feel uplifted whenever I pass Burwood now having seen how you've progressed through this. (What I really want to know though is what the hell that Chubb van is doing parked outside your block all the time?)

I'm looking forward to the challenge of doing that bit of shopping for you in Samoa too .... but please just promise me you won't wear it while riding your three wheeler .... or if you do, for God's sake wear some undies!

Go well John.

Unless I have a misses who will look after me and guide me, now that you have said it, I feel obliged to wear it with no undies now. The Chubb van belongs to a whanau member of one of the other patients. They are staying in that unit.

**inlinefour** · 7th June 2007, 12:34

Originally Posted by Deviant Esq

Anyone who sees a late model Mitsubishi Airtreck with two devious looking characters in it and music thumping away, give us a wave.

Esp if your female, will sit on my lap and let me play with you...

**Lissa** · 7th June 2007, 12:40

I really admire you IL4... and cant believe the amazing attitude you have

Coming to Welly aye? Some one should plan something for ya...

DE maybe post something in meetings and events?

**willy_01** · 7th June 2007, 12:47

We have never met but i have read your story from the start, good to see your getting out mate and heading back to the Naki, your out in bell block aye? if your ever out in penrod drive and see a big bugger (trying) to build a house come say hi, there is always a cold beer close!

Sam

**scrivy** · 7th June 2007, 13:06

Originally Posted by White trash

Better still. Get a race outfit built with hand gear changing. I'd swing off the bugger for ya!

I can see a date on my chair for you in the near future WT!!!!

**Joni** · 7th June 2007, 13:09

Originally Posted by scrivy

I can see a date on my chair for you in the near future WT!!!!

He's hopfully coming to the have a go day later this year... then you can show him how a real man rides a chair.... seeing he has only been out with Divvo so far

**sels1** · 7th June 2007, 13:37

Originally Posted by Deviant Esq

but if there anyone who's able to put us up for the night (Saturday June 9) in Wellington, it'd be appreciated:

Unfortunetly I already have house guests this weekend but hopefully someone will offer. I was thinking, if you keep us posted of your whereabouts, the cruisy Sunday morning Ride may be able to accompany you guys some of the way. I will put the suggestion up in that thread.